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The Birth of Death (Revised with Appendices)
Joseph P. Macolino, author
Adult; Sci-Fi/Fantasy/Horror; (Market)
While the elvish investigator, Artimus, struggles to balance his personal interests with the well-being of the kingdom, he must face a greater evil than he ever imagined. Thankfully, he will not be alone as the forest struggles to handle this new threat.
Plot/Idea: 8 out of 10
Originality: 7 out of 10
Prose: 7 out of 10
Character/Execution: 7 out of 10
Overall: 7.25 out of 10
Assessment:
Blending Dashell Hammett's hardboiled narrative style with elements of crime procedural investigation, political intrigue, and revolutionary philosophy into a mysticism-steeped high fantasy setting might seem like an overly busy combination, but The Birth of Death pulls it off with finesse. An investigation into a series of kidnappings puts elvish Royal Ranger Artimus Atyrmirid on the trail of a powerful demon building and army at the outskirts of a hidden village. Snappy writing keeps the action moving, and satisfying doses of lore, bolstered by appendices with maps and a glossary, will keep readers wanting to return to the world of Evorath for more.
Date Submitted: September 21, 2016
